Ocean Springs turns dirt on beach project

OCEAN SPRINGS — Construction has begun on the $2.2 million Front Beach path project in Ocean Springs. Funding is through a Community Development Block Grant and hurricane replacement costs from Federal Highway Emergency Relief Funds.

“We have had a great deal of public input on this project, and the Board of Aldermen and I are glad to see this project underway,” said Mayor Connie Moran.

Citizens of this coastal community will soon enjoy a meandering 1.2 mile, ten foot wide concrete path connecting the signature mosaic panels by the Biloxi Bay Bridge to the Ocean Springs Harbor. Island vegetation will be added to serve as a buffer between the seawall and the sidewalk.

Other project amenities include 55 vintage style street lights placed in the sand that will illuminate Front Beach Drive and the sidewalk. The lights are twenty feet high and are “dark sky” compliant. A concrete, 18-inch high “seat wall” imprinted with Walter Anderson coastal wave designs will be set adjacent to approximately one-third of the walking path. Concrete picnic tables, trash receptacles, and bike racks will be included.

“The beach path provides a safe option for folks walking along the beach,” said Eric Meyer, Director, Community Development and Planning. “The landscaping and seat wall will dramatically reduce the amount of sand that is blown onto Front Beach Drive. This project enhances Front Beach — our largest city park.”

Work will be completed in three construction phases with the sidewalk being built first, followed by lighting, and landscaping. Currently, Coleman Hammons Construction of Pearl, is staging all equipment and materials at the Ocean Pointe Condominium site, at the corner of Front Beach Drive and Martin Avenue. The project is expected to be completed by March 2010.

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